Hong Kong’s goal of becoming a regulated global hub for digital assets developed additional traction this week, with the announcement made by Animoca Brands, Standard Chartered Bank, and HKT about the formation of Anchorpoint Financial Limited, which will pursue a stablecoin issuer license under Hong Kong’s new Stablecoins Ordinance, which became law on August 1, 2025. The announcement is indicative of when finance, regulation, and Web3 adoption meet at a significant inflection point, and it will allow Hong Kong to be a serious competitor in the global space of digital currency.
A Strategic Alliance Under New Rules
The launch of Anchorpoint Financial comes as Hong Kong officially announces its Stablecoins Ordinance, providing a basic framework for the issuance and functioning of fiat-referenced stablecoins. Now that regulatory oversight is in place, issuers have a clear pathway towards compliance. The ordinance provides a six-month transition period for existing players, indicating a balance of innovation and control.
There is a strong opportunity for Standard Chartered Bank’s exposure to the partnership as it can directly leverage its work with the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) on tokenized money pilot programs. Standard Chartered Bank’s regulatory financial services experience, in conjunction with its well-regarded infrastructure, will serve as a necessary foundation for adoption at scale. Animoca Brands brings technological expertise and access to a growing developer ecosystem, while also being known for its thought leadership opposing Web3 adoption, navigating the complexities of the enforcement of blockchain-based digital property rights.
Driving Web3 Adoption at Scale
The partnership reaches a key turning point for the global stablecoin market that is valued at $2.8 billion, according to a 2023 report by the Bank for International Settlements (BIS). Concerns over volatility and unregulated issuers mean there is an increasing need for stable, fully backed digital currencies. Anchorpoint Financial aims to deliver precisely that—reliable, regulated digital payment solutions that can integrate seamlessly into both traditional finance and emerging Web3 platforms.
Animoca Brands’ partnership also unlocks the project as a focus not only for economic security but also for expanding the real-world use cases for digital assets. With their gaming ecosystems, from decentralized finance applications, Animoca Brands’ Web3 expertise could be a key factor in making regulated stablecoins a central utility and valuable proposition for millions of users, in line with Hong Kong’s paradigm to advance blockchain innovation and maintain investor protection.
Regulation Meets Market Opportunity
The HKMA’s structured yet competitive approach offers a unique advantage for Hong Kong. Implementing clear licensing and transition arrangements creates an attractive environment for stablecoin issuers operating in an increasingly regulated world. While mainland China continues to enforce its ban on cryptocurrencies, Hong Kong is taking the opposite approach, welcoming not only the local players but also international players into a regulated environment.
Standard Chartered Bank’s participation signals that established financial institutions see regulated digital currency projects as a legitimate growth avenue. Its work with tokenised money initiatives has already demonstrated how blockchain can enhance payment efficiency, cross-border transactions, and settlement times. Integrating these capabilities into a licensed stablecoin platform could set new industry benchmarks.
Setting the Stage for a Global Stablecoin Hub
The formation of Anchorpoint Financial underscores how public policy and private innovation can converge to reshape the financial landscape. With Hong Kong’s Stablecoins Ordinance now in force, the city has made a bold statement—it is ready to regulate, support, and scale the next generation of digital currency infrastructure. The partnership’s blend of banking strength, regulatory compliance, and Web3 adoption expertise gives it a competitive edge.
Animoca Brands will likely focus on creating practical applications that connect stablecoins to everyday users, while Standard Chartered ensures financial and operational security. HKT’s role adds telecommunications and payment network integration, expanding the project’s reach across digital and mobile platforms. If successful, Anchorpoint Financial could not only meet Hong Kong’s domestic needs but also attract cross-border interest, positioning the city as a leading issuer and innovator in the regulated stablecoin market. With global scrutiny on crypto volatility, such regulated offerings may become the standard rather than the exception.
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